Murray reflects on past decade of Oxford County Pride at AGM - new president and executive announced

(Left to right) Former vice-president Jordan Kent, former president Tami Murray, and new vice-president Katie Schulett of Oxford County Pride sit at their annual general meeting. A video interview between Murray and new president, Tera Russell-Curtis, plays in the background. (Emily Stewart Photo)

Emily Stewart, Echo Correspondent

Oxford County Pride’s former president and co-founder, Tami Murray, said leaving her role is “a little bittersweet,” but she is looking forward to what’s ahead for the organization.

Oxford County Pride held its annual general meeting at Woodstock’s Unifor Hall on Oct. 16 and streamed it on Zoom. Former president Tami Murray reflected on the past decade for the organization and announced the new Oxford County Pride president and executive members.

"It's hard to leave, but I am excited for the new team,” Murray said.

Tera Russell-Curtis is the new Oxford County Pride president. Although she was unable to make it to the AGM amid their stepdaughter’s graduation, Russell-Curtis prepared a video for the meeting to let Oxford County’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community know she is looking forward to supporting the community in her role.

"I wanted to start by saying how truly honoured I am to be stepping into the role of president. It means so much to have your trust and support and I'm really excited for what's ahead for the community. I also want to take a moment to recognize Tammy, our fire behind Oxford Pride. For the past 10 years, she's led us with unstoppable passion, courage, and a feisty spirit that's inspired so many of us."

Joining Rusell-Curtis is the new vice president, Katie Schulett, who is the successor to Jordan Kent. Becca Neepinn is the new two spirit ambassador and Ali S. is the new gender diversity ambassador. The organization is still seeking a financial officer for the role.

The meeting also brought up a survey by Wilfrid Laurier University seeking input from members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community who are 16 years of age and older. The survey can either be taken online by visiting https://wlu.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_08mICwouEAiJ0lU or by sending an email to ocerainbowresearch@outlook.com.

Towards the end of the meeting, Murray said that the first five years of her Oxford County Pride presidency were easier because it was a more progressive time. The last five years, in contrast, have presented a lot of anti-2SLGBTQIA+ discourse, discrimination, and misinformation that she said is hard to believe is still happening in 2025.

“We have a lot of challenges, some barriers to remove, and I think some advocacy to continue to happen in this community.”

Along with running her private practice, Murray will continue to show her support for Oxford County Pride, including Russell-Curtis and Schulett.

"They will be consulting with me throughout the year if there are questions or queries, but of course, I will be just continuing to come out to the events and enjoy them instead of having to plan them and work them every time, which is wonderful,” she explained.

Oxford County Pride’s popular Holiday Ugly Sweater event will be Dec. 6 at C and D Lanes. The bowl-a-thon also supports Big Brothers Big Sisters’ PRISM (Pride, Respect, Identity, Safety, Mentoring) program. Last year, the event sold out.